Of the 396 voters, 61 (15%) indicated they always look for the NASC seal and wouldn't purchase a supplement without it. Another 55 respondents (14%) said they look for the seal when it's available, while 47 voters (12%) said the NASC seal isn't a factor in their supplement purchases. Another 182 readers (46%) said they're not familiar with the seal or what it stands for, and 51 respondents (13%) said they do not purchase supplements for their horses. Additionally, 29 respondents shared comments about their thoughts on the NASC seal.

Readers who look for the seal when purchasing supplements for their horses said:

"I buy supplements for my 33-year-old gelding and like to know that I am getting what I am paying for."

"I don't currently use supplements, but I always look for the seal when I do."

"All else being equal, I would probably choose the product with the seal over one without."

"Without it I don't trust that the manufacturer is putting what they say they are in the supplement."

"I've always seen the emblem and thought it was a rating group, and recognized it as an important fact."

Others might consider it, but it doesn't drive their purchases:

"I'm not deterred from buying a product that doesn't have it, but it's nice to see."

"I always look for it, but some supplements I use don't have it."

"I prefer supplements with the seal, but don't totally rule out using one without it."

"NASC seal is good, yet effective supplements without are also worth using."

"My horses are teenage pasture potatoes, just basic hay diet - no need to supplement at this time."

The results of our weekly polls are published in The Horse Health E-Newsletter, which offers news on diseases, veterinary research, health events, and in-depth articles on common equine health conditions and what you can do to recognize, avoid, or treat them. Sign up for our e-newsletters on our homepage and look for a new poll on TheHorse.com every week!

About the Author

Erica Larson, news editor, holds a degree in journalism with an external specialty in equine science from Michigan State University in East Lansing. A Massachusetts native, she grew up in the saddle and has dabbled in a variety of disciplines including foxhunting, saddle seat, and mounted games. Currently, Erica competes in eventing with her OTTB, Dorado.

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